FPGEE for National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP) Practice Exam

What is the primary goal of active listening skills?

1. A set of behaviors that engages the audience

2. A set of behaviors that allows for effective interruptions

3. A set of behaviors that focuses attention on the speaker

4. A set of behaviors that minimizes the speaker's emotions

The correct answer is: A set of behaviors that focuses attention on the speaker

Active listening is fundamentally about focusing attention on the speaker to understand their message fully and empathetically. This skill involves not just hearing the words being spoken but also engaging with the speaker through nonverbal cues, appropriate feedback, and paying close attention to both verbal and non-verbal aspects of communication. By focusing attention on the speaker, a listener can validate their thoughts and feelings, which encourages open and meaningful dialogue. The other options, while they may relate to aspects of communication, do not accurately capture the essence of active listening. Engaging the audience or minimizing emotions can detract from the main goal, which is to genuinely understand and acknowledge the speaker’s message. Effective interruptions are contrary to the principle of active listening, as they can disrupt the flow of communication and prevent a full understanding of what the speaker is expressing.